How Can I Make A Difference?

“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a socialist.

Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a Jew.

Then they came for me –
and there was no one left to speak for me.”

—Martin Niemöller

Can one person really make a difference?

Yes! History has shown that the actions of individuals can have an enormous positive impact on the lives of others. The enduring lessons of the Holocaust include not only stories of human cruelty, but also of the differences made by ordinary people who chose to do good in the world and who helped their fellow human beings.

5 Things You Can Do

Here are 5 things you can do to help prevent racism and discrimination – and to make a difference.

1. Stay Informed

Know what is going on locally, nationally and globally.

Understand the causes, signs and consequences of prejudice, racism, antisemitism and stereotyping in society.

4. Bring a Program to Your School

Consider planning a Holocaust Related Program at your school on one of the following commemorative days:

International Holocaust Remembrance Day (IHRD), January 27

Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day (Israel), date varies

World Refugee Day, June 20

Canadian Multiculturalism Day, June 27

Kristallnacht / International Day Against Fascism and Antisemitism (Europe), November 9

Remembrance Day, November 11

International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime, December 9

International Human Rights Day, December 10

5. Support the VHEC

Become a VHEC Member. Becoming a member of the VHEC (or renewing your membership) supports Holocaust-based anti-racism education that makes a difference in your community.

Donate to the VHEC. Whether it’s a one-time donation, a monthly contribution or a legacy endowment gift, supporting the work of the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre helps empower young people in your community to become engaged citizens.